Arsenal's chances of signing Angel di Maria take a twist for the worse

For over a week now, the name Angel di Maria has been touted as a potential signing for Arsenal Football Club.

This is despite the Argentine stating in early August he intends to continue his career with Real Madrid, amid speculation also linking him to PSG.

The winger enjoyed a mixed time last season, failing to find his best form under Jose Mourinho, but the signs are he is looking to get back to his best.

Di Maria, rated at £20 million plus, has been singled out by new Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti as a key player, even if Gareth Bale arrives at the club.

Ancelotti said quite clearly in a press conference: "Even if Bale signs, I don’t want Di María to leave."

Real Madrid have backed their manager in the transfer market this summer, and are not suddenly going to begin selling a player against his wishes.

Spanish paper Marca even report that Di Maria has been pencilled into start Real Madrid's match on Sunday against Athletic Bilbao, just 24 hours before the transfer window closes.

"He’s been outstanding," Ancelotti told reporters.

Marca claim that Di Maria is seen as invaluable because of his willingness to track back, a criticism levelled at a player played out wide last weekend, Mesut Ozil.

Arsenal are within their rights to try and tempt Madrid and Ancelotti into a sale, but realistically it would seem the chances of being succssful are slim to none, and they should move onto others targets.

Dan Coombs

Dan Coombs has been writing for HITC Sport full time since 2012 and has helped the website grow it's audience considerably during this period, while managing a team of writers. He has interviewed high profile names including Stuart Pearce and his work has been cited in Javier Hernandez's biography. In addition to football, Dan is a big fan of the NFL and NBA.